South Africa: Student protests ongoing on several campuses as of March 15; further protests possible through March

Event

Student protests are possible at tertiary education facilities nationwide through March. As of March 15, students are protesting at several campuses and National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) offices. Earlier, students, including the South African Union of Students (SAUS) and the South African Students Congress (SASCOC) called for a shutdown of all institutions of higher learning from March 15 until their demands were met, including canceling historic student debt, allowing registration for all deserving students, and for increasing student financing.

Security forces are likely to deploy to monitor related events. Protests could attract a few dozen to a few hundred people. As of the morning of March 15, protests were relatively minor and undisruptive; however, the size and impact of rallies could increase in the coming hours and days if demonstrators' demands are not met. Confrontations between security forces and student protesters are possible. Ground travel disruptions are likely near all protest sites. Note that protesters may also seek to demonstrate outside education facility campuses.

Advice

Exercise caution near or on tertiary education campuses and NSFAS offices through March. Avoid all protests. Heed the instructions of the security forces. Liaise with trusted contacts for updates on possible protests. Confirm business appointments at tertiary education facilities.